Here is my new list of the Best Gifts for the International Traveler. Many travelers already own their favorite travel gear whether it might be a bag, backpack, electronic, travel towel, water bottle or piece of clothing. However, this gear list is for the "hard to buy for" friend or family member that seems to have everything and lacks for nothing. But oh how they will appreciate these little gifts that range from $5 to $50 that are so very utilitarian and packable.
Satechi Travel Adapter/Router $49.99
video Common electrical adapters can be purchased for $1 to $15. But most travelers will find that they need more than one electrical adapter because they carry various electronics. Like many adapters this product will work in about 150 countries and can simultaneously accept mulitple electrical plugs and USB plugs so that electronics may be simultaneously charged. What makes this adapter special is that it can also serve as a router to create wifi hotspots anywhere there is an electrical outlet and internet connection. Cool!
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter $39.99
video It is true that a traveler can now easily buy bottled water in almost every country and even in very remote locations. However, the cost of buying bottled water can cut into one's travel funds and contribute to plastic waste build up in a country where recycling is not readily available. So for economical and ecological reasons, I now travel with a Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter and a water bottle. This filter system packs lightly (about 3 ozs) and compactly (about 5 inches) and is very quick and easy to use. The filter removes 99.99999% of all bacteria, such as salmonella, cholera and E.coli; removes 99.9999% of all protozoa, such as giardia and cryptosporidium. Sweet!
Apple iPhoto Hardback Photobook gift certificate $29.99 to $49.99
video OK, this gift is probably better given as a gift after someone returns home from their epic adventure. Sharing photos on Facebook, Instigram and other online websites if fun. But to create a tangible and lasting memory there is nothing better than an actual high quality hardback photobook. Many travelers may not buy such a book for themselves because of the cost or because these days photos quickly become an afterthought. But most travelers will certainly appreciate such a gift from a friend or family member. The clincher is that the Apple iPhoto Hardback Photobooks are easy to assemble and are produced in very high quality. If one's best photos are curated and incorporated, these photo books will be treasured for years to come. Perfect!
Swiss Tech Utili-key $10.00
video Most international travel involves flying or crossing borders. With restrictions placed on carrying knives or multi-tools through check-points, one is often faced with the dilemma of going without, checking in luggage or confiscation. One stealth multi-tool that I have carried with me and never had it confiscated is the Swiss Tech Utili-key. The traditional model stealthily clips on to a key ring and may be used as a knife, bottle opener and screwdriver. The newest version may also be used as a nail file, nail cleaner and wire stripper. It is like the Swiss Army knife that you wish you could carry through security check-points. Handy!
Nikon Micro-Fiber Lens Cleaning Cloth $5.00
video Whether one is using a smart phone, point-and-shoot or DSLR camera, everyones taking photos while they travel. Nothing can ruin a great photo more than a smudge or spot on the lens of a camera. For those circumstances, I have one of these handy little micro-fiber lens cleaning cloths clipped on to my camera strap ring. It neatly tucks away into the attached pouch when not in use and it is easily pulled out when needed. It is also handy for cleaning eyeglasses, smartphone, tablet and computer screens. An additional tip, I place an extra SD memory card in a card case and wrap it inside the cloth and pouch. That way I always have a clean lens and extra memory card attached to my camera. :)
So there you have it… The Best Gifts For The International Traveler.
As a disclaimer, I do not have a relationship with the manufacturers or any retailers of these items. I am recommending theses products purely based on my likes, preferences and usage. Search online for local or online retailers.
